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Speaker and Educator Resources

Looking for a presenter or educator for an event? Below are some people who can help you spread the word about safe driving in your school or community. Do you know of someone who may like to be included on this list? Let us know>

This list is to connect outside resources with schools and the community. Teens in the Driver Seat, Youth Transportation Safety Program, and Texas A&M Transportation Institute are not responsible for these speaker’s schedules or content. All agreements made are between speakers and their hosts.

Survivor Speakers:

On March 11, 2005, Tyson survived a car accident that left him paralyzed from the waist down. On that day, Tyson lost his ability to walk and life as he knew it changed forever. What Tyson gained was a desire to inspire people to be determined in life and to live life completely.

Tyson Dever is a world class speaker that will inspire and motivate your group to reach higher than ever before. He is a graduate of Texas State University- San Marcos and now resides in the Austin area. Stemming from a real life car accident that left him paralyzed at the waist, his high energy keynote presentation will bring you to tears but leave you more determined than ever before. Tyson’s background as a speaker, teacher, and coach gives him an unparalleled connection with his audience. His drive to live life the fullest has inspired groups from all over to understand that quitting is not an option!

Jamie made the bad decision to drive after drinking and wrecked into a tree, which caused brain trauma. Luckily, he was by himself and no one else was involved. After much healing and on-going therapy, Jamie wants to share his message to other teens so they won’t make the same mistake.

Jamie speaks honestly about his injuries and what his life is like. His normal format is speaking, showing his video, then question and answers with the audience. Contact Katrina Chapman for arrangements and scheduling at [email protected]

Jeff LeGrow – Texas and Surrounding Areas
www.NickelFromNicole.com

In memory of Nicole LeGrow, a passenger in a car, who’s aspiring life came to a tragic end on July 8, 2010 at the young age of 16. Nicole’s tragic death is a wake up call and reminder to all, of the fatal consequences that can result from reckless behavior behind the wheel of a vehicle.

Nicole’s family is carrying her memory forward by sharing her story and encouraging teens and other drivers to remember Nicole by attaching a nickel inside their car to help remind them to slow down and be safe. Nickel From Nicole cards (with nickel) can be ordered from the website.

Brandy Williams – Georgia

Brandy lost her left leg and suffered a stroke after her Chevy Malibu veered off the road and into a tree. She was texting a friend at the time of the wreck. Brandy is available for prestentations to schools, as her schedule allows. Brandy’s cell phone is 912-245-0348. Email is [email protected].

A leading speaker on peer pressure, risk-taking and traffic safety. Drawing from immense personal tragedy in her own life, watching her identical twin sister die in a car crash the day after their 18th birthday, Cara’s inspiring presentations focus on dealing with peer pressure, being a role model, avoiding negative risks such as drugs and alcohol and being You-nique.

Using humor and touching stories, Cara captivates her audience and leads them on an emotional roller coaster ride.

Sean’s journey into his new life started at the crash site in Wichita Falls, Texas, during the wee hours of Sunday, March 27, 2005. At the time of his motor vehicle crash, Sean was a student at Midwestern State University majoring in Business Administration. He was the passenger in a truck, driven by a college friend who was drunk. As the truck spun and slammed into a tree, Sean’s journey began.

Sean suffered multiple fractures, internal injuries, but worst of all a traumatic brain injury. Sean is now well down the path of his new life. Although he has forgotten how to walk and talk, Sean continues to make progress.

Sean and his mom present his story to others around the nation. The presentation lasts approximately 40 minutes, but they ask for at least another 5-10 minutes for a “No Holds Barred” Question and Answer session. This block of time is vital to your youths’ understanding that Sean represents every man (student). He could be any one of them. ..and so could his Mom.

Please contact for pricing and scheduling. Contact Jenny at 469-323-5627 or e-mail at [email protected]

Ms. Forney’s 9-year-old daughter, Erica, was riding on her bike on her way home from school on November 25th, 2008 when an adult driver coming the opposite direction from her drifted into the bike lane and hit Erica head on. Erica died from a severe brain injury two days later on Thanksgiving Day. Since then Ms. Forney helped launch FocusDriven Advocates for Cell Free Driving and has traveled all over the United States and Canada to educate the public about distracted driving.

After suffering a Traumatic Brain injury at age 16, Jacob spent many months in neuro-trauma rehabilitation therapy. He had multiple surgeries on his face and back all due to a distracted driver hitting a school vehicle that he was in. Although he had multiples injuries and was told that he might not ever walk again, he was determined to succeed. Since then, he has grown and overcome barriers that were never imagine.

Ms. Rivas lost her son after he smoked synthetic weed then took his own life. With the growing use of “spice” and other drugs before getting behind the wheel, this is an important message for teens. Ms. Rivas delivers 45-minute presentations to students. Prices are based on audience size, plus travel.

Texas Municipal Police Association – Texas

Distracted driving is a dangerous epidemic on America’s roadways. In 2010 alone, over 3,000 people were killed in distracted driving crashes. The message is simple, if you’re on the road, stay off the phone!

This 2.5 to 3 hour presentation is available to junior highs, high schools, and colleges at no cost.